CHIPPEWA CO. MAN PLEADS TO SCAM
Friday, March 21st, 2008 -- 11:48 AM
The man who prosecutors say was the ringleader of a scam to raise millions of dollars through deceptive telephone solicitations for questionable charitable causes has pleaded guilty to racketeering.Duane J. Kolve, 41, of Chippewa Falls had been accused of 13 counts of racketeering. Prosecutors say all but one count was dismissed in a plea bargain.
Eight people were originally charged in the scam two years ago.
Eau Claire County District Attorney Richard White says charges against four were dismissed and three others pleaded to reduced charges for their cooperation in the prosecution of Kolve.
Judge Benjamin Practor on Thursday sentenced Kolve to six years probation, including 10 months in jail with work privileges.
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